Removable Flexible Pipe Coupling for Aircraft Fuel Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing connection systems between fuel tanks in aircraft are complex to assemble and disassemble, prone to pipe tearing during maintenance due to adhesion issues after lubrication dries, and lack ease of removal without compromising sealing and shock resistance.
Innovation Solution
A removable connection device comprising two bases secured to flexible pipes with gluing and a clamping mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining sealing and shock resistance, using removable fastening means like screws and seals like O-rings for flexibility and rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two flexible pipes are connected directly by a clamp with a metal sleeve, then the connection is structurally sound and resistant to shocks, but the assembly and disassembly become complex and prone to pipe tearing due to adhesion
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into two separate bases (first base and second base) that can be independently assembled to the flexible pipes, then connected together via removable fastening means. This segmentation allows each base to be separately installed and removed, eliminating the adhesion problem between directly connected pipes while maintaining structural integrity through the intermediate connection structure.
2Ease of operation
If fuel is used to lubricate the connection between pipes, then slight sliding is enabled during assembly, but the pipes adhere to each other after the fuel dries, creating maintenance risks
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful adhesion effect is eliminated by extracting the direct contact interface between the two flexible pipes. The first and second bases act as intermediate elements that prevent the pipes from adhering to each other, even when lubrication is used during assembly. The pipes are secured to separate bases rather than to each other, removing the source of the adhesion problem.
3Reliability
If the connection between pipes is made freely movable to reduce stress concentrations during shocks, then shock resistance is improved, but the sealing and structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the connection device have different degrees of rigidity and movability optimized for their specific functions. The bases are made rigid to provide strong, stable attachment points to the flexible pipes, while the removable fastening means (screws, clips, or latches) allow controlled movement and stress absorption. This local differentiation of mechanical properties enables both strong sealing and shock resistance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates maintenance operations by eliminating adhesion risks and maintaining sealing and shock resistance, allowing flexible pipes to absorb shocks without tearing, with bases providing rigidity and ease of assembly and replacement.
Implementation Method 1
each base being able to be secured respectively with one of the two flexible pipes by at least one securing means
Implementation Method 2
the seal between the two bases is ensured by at least one seal
Implementation Method 3
These bases are mechanically assembled to each other by at least one removable fastening means
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A removable coupling device is provided for coupling together two flexible pipes of two tanks, and also provides a fuel storage system. The removable coupling device has two connector seats, with each connector seat being secured to a respective flexible pipe by adhesive bonding. The connector seats are rigid and are assembled mechanically together via at least one screw. The sealing between the connector seats is provided by a gasket.